Investigation for infertility includes both partners. The basic process of fertility evaluation requires few menstrual cycles to be completed. The investigations include:
- Discussion about how often and when you have sex
- Medical history and physical examination for both partners
- Check for ovulation
- Semen analysis
- Tests to check for a normal uterus and open fallopian tubes Infertility
Investigations for the woman
The history will focus on the following issues:
- Menstrual pattern (irregular periods may imply ovulation disorder)
- Pain during or before menstruation or during intercourse (these could be symptom of endometriosis)
- History of sexually transmitted diseases (as this may suggest pelvic infection disease)
- History of abdominal operations (as this may imply intrabdominal adhesions).
The physical examination will look for details of the secondary female characteristics as for evidence of acne and hirsuitism (signs of polycystic ovaries).
Blood Tests
A blood test taken in the second half of the menstrual cycle can measure progesterone to show if ovulation has occurred as this hormone is produced from the ovaries after a woman ovulates. Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone are also measured at the beginning of the menstrual cycle to evaluate the reserves of the ovaries to produce good quality eggs. If there are period irregularities, prolactin and thyroid function test may also performed.
Post-coital test (PCT)
This test examines under microscope the number and the function of sperm in the cervical mucus six to twelve hours after the couple had intercourse.
Procedures Transvaginal Ultrasound
This procedure uses a thin long ultrasound probewhich is inserted into the vagina and produce images of pelvic organs. Although it is not a pleasant procedure, is not painful and is well tolerated by the majority of women. It helps to evaluate.
Infertility Investigations for man
- A semen assessment is the key investigation of male fertility. A fresh sample is needed and it may need to be repeated more than once. The semen sample will be studied for the following factors: Number
- Morphology
- Movement
- Signs of infection.
If the sperm appears to be unsatisfactory, the male partner may consult an urologist before the couple considers assisted reproductive methods of conception.